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Heyward opts to change representation

AP Photo/Rob Carr

Jason Heyward has ended his affiliation with Atlanta-based Career Sports Entertainment. Multiple sources have said he will now be represented by Casey Close, whose high-profile clients include Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard and Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.

Heyward had been affiliated with CSE since the Braves took him with the 14th overall selection in the 2007 First-Year Player Draft. During this time, he formed a strong bond with Victor Menocal, who served as one of CSE’s agents before leaving the agency in early April.

It is believed that Heyward is following Menocal, an Atlanta resident who played shortstop for head coach Danny Hall at Georgia Tech. Long before coming to Tech, Hall was an assistant coach for the University of Michigan teams that Close starred for in the 1980s.

Heyward will not be arbitration-eligible until the end of the 2012 season. While the Braves may attempt to give the 21-year-old outfielder a multi-year deal before he becomes arbitration-eligible, there have been no known negotiations.

With the help of Heyward, CSE also added Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman to its list of clients. Freeman has not revealed whether he will be affected by Heyward’s decision.

2 Comments

At least he didn’t switch to Boras, so that’s good news. Unfortunately I just saw on AJC site that Moylan will probably be out for a while and have back surgery. Also, Marek at AAA will have Tommy John surgery and be out for a year or so. The 7th might be a little dicey-EOF can’t pitch every night. Hope Gearrin/Linebrink/Sherrill can handle it.

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